History

Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with a major in History

(120 credit hours) Requirements are subject to change.

The study of history at Springfield College is designed to provide students with a basic body of historical and related knowledge which will enable them to better understand the world they inhabit, the problems of their society, and their own lives. The College believes that this core of historical understanding enables students to function as educated and informed citizens in a democratic society. A knowledge of history and its methodology helps students understand the origins and background of contemporary problems, allowing them to deal more effectively with those problems. Furthermore, a knowledge of the ethnic and cultural diversity that has created the present will help students to communicate and cooperate in a multicultural society.

Another major goal of the history program is to assist students in developing analytical, problem-solving, research, and writing skills. The major emphasizes content and information, but is also designed to foster the skills and attitudes that will increase the ability of graduates to find employment, regardless of their occupational goals. Careers in government service, law, business, and teaching readily follow the training of those who major in this discipline.

Students complete core requirements in history and related social sciences, and they have the option to pursue a concentration, deepening their focus in a particular area or corollary of history. History majors may also opt to seek licensure as a teacher of history at the secondary level.

Are you interested in a law school degree? Pre-law advising is available to any student interested in pursuing a law school degree. Contact Professor Dan Russell, pre-law advisor, at (413) 748-3240. Click here to learn more.

For more information about the history major, contact the Social Science Department at (413) 748-3201 or the Admissions Office at (800) 343-1257.

Download a History Program Checksheet

CURRICULAR REQUIREMENTS

I. General Education Program (40 - 46 credits)

The General Education program at Springfield College is informed by its century-old Humanics tradition of educating the whole person in spirit, mind, and body, for leadership in service to humanity. These requirements have the goal of developing literate, thoughtful, socially responsible students, and instilling in them a spirit of inquiry into the nature of humankind and the universe. Towards those ends, the requirements emphasize and encourage: the acquisition of knowledge, understanding, and competency essential for the improvement of the human condition in a diverse society; a search for personal and spiritual values; and the development of an understanding and appreciation of physical well-being. For specific requirements, see the General Education Program section or the Program Checksheet for this major.

II. Major Requirements

A. Core Requirements

HIST 101 - Survey of the History of Western Civilization Credits: 3
HIST 102 - The Making of the Modern World Credits: 3
HIST 105 - Colonial America to the Civil War Credits: 3
HIST 106 - The Civil War to Modern America Credits: 3
HIST 482 - History Seminar Credits: 3-4
HIST ___ - 6 credits of American history electives
HIST ___ - 6 credits of non-American history electives
HIST ___ - 9 credits of any history electives (excluding HIST 441)

III. Optional Concentrations

In consultation with their advisors, students may choose one or more of the following concentratons, which will be duly noted on the transcripts.

A. European Studies

This interdisciplinary concentration emphasizes Western Europe and covers fields from history to political science. Advanced study of one of the major European languages is strongly encouraged. In consultation with the advisor, students must choose 21 s.h. in at least three different disciplines. Sample courses include:

ENGL 467 - Shakespeare Credits: 3
GERM 103 - German Culture and Language Credits: 3
HIST 326 - Medieval History Credits: 3

B. American Studies

This interdisciplinary concentration covers all aspects American life from art to sociology. In consultation with the advisor, students must choose 21 s.h. in at least three different disciplines.

ARTS 219 - American Art 1700-1900 Credits: 3
HIST 360 - Early American Thought and Culture Credits: 3
RELI 104 - Religion in America Credits: 3

C. World Culture and Civilization

This interdisciplinary concentration emphasizes areas beyond Western Europe and North America and covers fields from art history to political science. The advanced study of a foreign language is strongly encouraged. In consultation with the advisor, students must choose 21 s.h. in at least three different disciplines. Sample courses include:

HIST 335 - Modern China Credits: 3
SPAN 104 - Latin American Culture and Language Credits: 3

D. History and Public Service

This interdisciplinary concentration focuses on European, American, and Latin American culture, including recreation, business, and human services and administration. Advanced study of a foreign language is strongly advised. In consultation with the advisor, students must choose 21 s.h. in at least three different disciplines. Sample courses include:

BUSM 150 - Introduction to Business Credits: 3
HIST 365 - Environmental History of America Credits: 3
SMRT 103 - Introduction to Recreation and Leisure Services Credits: 3

IV. Electives (to complete a minimum of 120 credits)

Program Requirements

All history majors must have a 2.500 GPA in the history core requirements to graduate as a history major.

Academic Catalog